Cruz Hewitt has fallen agonisingly short of a fairytale debut in the Wimbledon boys’ tournament, defeated 4-6, 6-4, 7-5 in the final by American Jordan Lee.
The 17-year-old son of former world No.1 Lleyton Hewitt hadn’t dropped a set on his way to the final and looked in control for most of the match as he sought to win the title 24 years after his dad lifted the men’s trophy at the tournament.
Cruz Hewitt’s frustration in an epic battle with Jordan Lee. AP Photo/Brian Inganga
But his incredible run was brought undone by 16-year-old Lee, the youngest in the 2026 boys’ draw.
Hewitt looked composed but heartbroken as he was presented with the runner’s up plate.
He was impressive throughout the entire final and led 4-2 in the deciding third set before Lee fought back.
“It’s been a very special week for me, I think I played some very good tennis as well, being able to make the final and play on this beautiful court, it’s been really unreal,” he said.
Lleyton Hewitt in the coach’s box watched on anxiously as his son put up a tremendous fight. AP Photo/Dave Shopland
Mum Bec Hewitt and sister Ava Sydney Hewitt watch Cruz in the final. Getty Images
“Obviously I grew up around this tournament, seen my dad play, seen this court for many years now. It’s been a privilege to play on any court here and being around all the fans, it’s been a really good atmosphere all week.”
After match point, Lee celebrated with a dance on the hallowed grass of No.1 Court before he was overcome with emotions. He climbed into the stands to celebrate with his team.
As he collected his trophy he congratulated Hewitt and revealed a year ago he was on his couch with “lots of injuries”, unsure if he would play tennis again.
He was composed but clearly heartbroken after the match. Getty Images
“So I’m really happy to be here,” he said.
Hewitt played with his father in the coach’s box and actress mother Bec Hewitt cheering on in the stands in one of the longest-ever boys’ finals at Wimbledon.
Hewitt was unseeded and had to beat four consecutive seeded players, including the No.2 seed, on his way even to the final.
He didn’t drop a set the entire tournament until the final two.
Jordan Lee dances to celebrate winning the Wimbledon boys’ title. Getty Images
His debut at Wimbledon comes 24 years after his father won the men’s singles title.
Cruz is the first Australian to reach the junior boys’ final since Alex de Minaur in 2016. Australia’s last winner was Luke Saville in 2011.